The targeted deportations of foreign journalists and Christians in Turkey were denounced by MEP Costas Mavridis (DIKO – S&D) before the competent Commissioner, in the debate on "Targeted deportations of foreign journalists and foreign Christians in Turkey", in the plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
In his speech, Mr. Mavridis initially stated:
“In Turkey, being a Christian can be considered a crime and a justification for deportation on national security grounds. Being a journalist can also be considered a crime and a reason for deportation. Being a Kurdish politician is definitely considered a crime, labeled a terrorist and sentenced to life imprisonment, like Demirtas. Being a democrat and criticizing Erdogan is considered a crime that can result in imprisonment for 2.430 years, like Mayor Imamoglu. Being a human rights defender is also considered a crime and punished with imprisonment.”
Continuing, the Cypriot MEP pointed out that the relevant resolution calls on the High Representative and the European Commission to systematically raise these issues with Turkey and to consider targeted measures if the violations continue. As Mr. Mavridis stressed, “I am 100% sure that they will do nothing. European Union territory in Cyprus is under illegal occupation and they did nothing because special interests prevail” with Turkey. In closing, Mr. Mavridis addressed the European Commissioner, stating:
– “Madam Commissioner, please refute me.”
MEP Press Office
photo mfk, https://pixabay.com
